Pressure measurement technology plays an important role in the food industry, as it is used to monitor and control processes such as the production, packaging, and storage of food. In this article, we will explore the various applications of pressure sensors in the food industry.
Pressure Measurement in the Food Industry
Pressure sensors are widely used in the food industry and are utilized for a variety of applications, including:
- Sterilization and Pasteurization: Sterilization and pasteurization are processes used to extend the shelf life of food products. Both processes require the use of pressure sensors to ensure that the pressure inside the chamber is maintained at a specific level.
- Filling and Packaging Processes: Pressure sensors are also used to monitor filling and packaging processes to ensure that the packages are sealed tightly and that the pressure inside the packages is maintained at a specific level.
- Cooling and Freezing Processes: Cooling and freezing processes are a crucial part of food production as they increase the shelf life of food. Pressure sensors are used to ensure that cooling and freezing processes are carried out properly and that the pressure inside the cooling and freezing systems is maintained at a specific level.
Types of Pressure Sensors
There are various types of pressure sensors used in the food industry. Below are some of the most common types explained.
- Ceramic Pressure Sensors: Ceramic pressure sensors are very robust and durable, making them ideal for use in the food industry. They are also highly sensitive and can quickly detect changes in pressure.
- Thin-Film Pressure Sensors: Thin-film pressure sensors are very accurate and have a fast response time. They are also very cost-effective, making them ideal for use in large production facilities.
- Piezoresistive Pressure Sensors: Piezoresistive pressure sensors are very sensitive and highly accurate. They are also very robust and durable, making them ideal for use in the food industry.
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Capacitive Pressure Sensors: Capacitive pressure sensors use electric fields to measure pressure. They are very accurate and have a fast response time. However, they are also sensitive to moisture and must be used in a controlled environment.
Pressure Sensor Arrangements
Pressure sensor arrangements refer to the ways in which pressure sensors are used in the food industry. Below are some of the most common arrangements explained.
- Manometers: Manometers are the simplest type of pressure sensor arrangement and are commonly used in the food industry. They consist of a tube connected to a gauge and measure pressure by detecting the force exerted on the liquid in the tube.
- Pressure Transmitters: Pressure transmitters are more advanced pressure sensor arrangements that can output electrical signals indicating the pressure in the system. These signals can be sent to a monitoring system that monitors pressure in real-time and makes adjustments as needed.
Hygienic Requirements
The food industry is subject to very strict hygiene regulations to ensure that the food produced is safe for consumption. Pressure sensors used in the food industry must therefore meet specific requirements to ensure they are hygienic.
- Stainless Steel Housing: Pressure sensors used in the food industry must have a stainless steel housing that is easy to clean and resistant to corrosion.
- Seals: Pressure sensors must also have special seals to ensure that they do not introduce bacteria or contaminants into the system.
- Cleanability: Pressure sensors must be easy to clean to ensure that they do not harbor bacteria or contaminants. They must therefore be designed to be cleaned without disassembly and with minimal disruption to the production process.
Conclusion
Pressure measurement technology is an important part of the food industry and is used for a variety of applications, including sterilization, pasteurization, filling and packaging, and cooling and freezing. There are various types of pressure sensors and arrangements that can be used in the food industry, and they must all meet specific requirements to ensure they are hygienic. When used correctly, pressure sensors can help improve the quality and safety of food products while increasing efficiency and productivity in food production.
- Sensor can be calibrated without having to open the process
- Simple and fast electrical connection via M12 x 1 plug connector
- With direct sensor output (Pt100/Pt1000 in 3 or 4-wire version) or integrated transmitter with 4 ... 20 mA output signal, individually parameterisable with free-of-charge WIKAsoft-TT PC configuration software
- Wetted parts from stainless steel 1.4435
- Self-draining and dead-space minimised, materials and surface finish qualities in accordance with standards of hygienic design
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- Double-diaphragm system prevents contamination of process and environment
- Hygienic process connections in different designs
- Signal transmission and configuration with only one cable per measuring location
- Minimal installation costs, even with retrofitting
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- Safety via mechanical pressure transmission
- Case and wetted parts in hygienic design
- Suitable for SIP and CIP, autoclavable version available
- Easy zero point setting
- High overpressure safety
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- Flush, aseptic process connection
- Dead-space free installation
- Suitable for SIP and CIP
- 3-A compliant
- Rotatable retainer flange
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- Quick cleaning, without residue
- Milk thread fitting per DIN 11851
- Suitable for cleaning out of place (COP)
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- TÜV certified SIL version for protection systems developed per IEC 61508 (option)
- Operation in safety applications to SIL 2 (single instrument) and SIL 3 (redundant configuration)
- Configurable with almost all soft- and hardware tools
- Universal for the connection of 1 or 2 sensors
- Resistance thermometer, resistance sensor
- Thermocouple, mV sensor
- Potentiometer - Signalling in accordance with NAMUR NE43, sensorbreak detection in accordance with NE89, EMC in accordance with NE21
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